How much does it cost to run a clothes iron?

By Juan Molina · Updated October 3, 2026 · How we calculate

Short answer: A clothes iron drawing 1,200 watts for 20 minutes costs about $0.07 per use at the U.S. average residential price of 18.31¢ per kWh. Used 2 times a week, that is about $0.63 per month and $7.62 per year. In Louisiana, the cheapest state, the same use costs $0.44 a month; in Hawaii, the most expensive, $1.66.

A steam iron draws about 1,200 watts while its element is on. Once it reaches temperature the thermostat cycles, so a 20-minute session uses 0.4 kWh at most and usually less.

Cost by size and setting

Costs below use the U.S. average price and 20 minutes per use, 2 times a week.

How an iron uses power

The element heats the soleplate to the set temperature and then switches off until it cools slightly. Linen and cotton settings keep it on longer than synthetics. Steam takes extra energy, since the iron has to boil the water it sprays.

What changes the cost

The fabric setting, how much steam you use, and how long the session lasts. Ironing one shirt each morning is less efficient than doing a week's worth at once, because the iron has to heat up from cold each time.

How to lower the cost

• Iron in batches so the iron heats up only once.
• Start with fabrics that need low heat and finish with cotton and linen.
• Switch the iron off for the last item or two; the soleplate stays hot for several minutes.
• Take clothes out of the dryer promptly and hang them, so fewer need ironing at all.

How a clothes iron compares with other appliances

Typical power and use for each appliance, at the U.S. average price of 18.31¢ per kWh. Follow a link for that appliance's own calculator, or compare two side by side.

The math behind the numbers

1,200 watts ÷ 1,000 = 1.2 kW. 1.2 kW × 20 minutes ÷ 60 = 0.4 kWh per use. 0.4 kWh × $0.1831 = $0.07 per use. At 2 uses a week, that is 3.5 kWh and $0.63 a month.

Your own figure will differ if your appliance has a different wattage, if you use it more or less, or if your price per kWh is not the national average. Change any of those in the calculator at the top of this page. Our step-by-step guide explains where to find each number.

Cost to run a clothes iron in every state

Based on 1,200 watts for 20 minutes per use, 2 times a week, at each state's average residential electricity price for July 2026.

Sources

• U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Power Monthly (state electricity prices)
• U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Saver: Appliances and Electronics

Electricity prices are the EIA figures for July 2026. Wattages are typical values; check the label on your own appliance.